The former Chief of the Lower Nicola Indian Band will be running for the BC NDP in the Fraser-Nicola riding during the next provincial election.

Aaron Sumexheltza is currently a Councillor on the Lower Nicola Indian Band and is the Chair of the Indigenous Business and Investment Council. He is also on the Board of Commissioners for BC Housing.

Sumexheltza was previously a member of B.C.’s Climate Solution and Clean Growth Climate Council, the BC Aboriginal Justice Council, and the Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corporation.

“It’s time the people of Fraser-Nicola had strong leadership that will focus on them and their families as we recover from this pandemic,” he said, in a statement. “I’m excited to join John Horgan’s team to build a recovery that truly works for everyone by creating more affordable housing, ensuring access to better childcare and protecting our environment.”

He lost out to former NDP MLA Harry Lali when he sought the NDP nomination in Fraser-Nicola ahead of the 2017 election. Lali in turn was beaten by the current, Jackie Tegart, who has been the MLA since 2013.